Slaughterhouse Five-Billy Pilgrim and his Compromises

When I first thought about Slaughterhouse Five and Billy Pilgrim, I didn't think that any compromise was present in the story. But as I dug deeper, I realized that Billy compromises his beliefs for the majority of his life, as he keeps the aliens and his experiences to himself. Although he knows in his head that the experiences are something that he shouldn't share with anyone because they will think he is crazy, at some point he decides that telling the world is what is more important to himself.

When Billy finally decides to share his experiences, it seems as though he sets himself free. Although his daughter and son-in-law think he has lost his mind, and spend their time worrying about how his actions will affect them, he couldn't care less. He feels as though his experiences need to be shared, whether or not anyone believes that what he has to say must be shared.

As I thought of all of this, I felt that Vonnegut was sharing an important truth with his readers: we shouldn't compromise when it comes to our happiness. He seems to be saying that while other people may not agree with what you have to say, saying it will set you free simply because you are being honest.

I'm not sure how I feel about this message. I do agree that it is important to do what it takes to make yourself happy, I don't feel like you should step on others to ensure your own happiness. I actually want to "compromise" his message, and meet him halfway. Do what you can to make yourself happy, but don't be willing to ruin relationships around you just to make sure that your feelings are where they want to be.